This Lentil and Egg Scramble Has Been Saving My Mornings

Alright, listen up! Tired of the same old breakfast routine? This Lentil and Egg Scramble is your new best friend. It's packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, and it'll keep you full 'til lunchtime. Forget boring breakfasts - we're leveling up!

Recipe: Chef's Kickstart Lentil & Egg Scramble

This recipe feeds one hungry person, but feel free to double or triple it as needed.

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes

Serving Size: 1

Ingredients:

• The Base:
  • 1/2 cup cooked green or brown lentils (canned, rinsed and drained, or freshly cooked)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
  • 1/4 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a lovely depth of flavor!)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• The Scramble:
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk or cream (optional, for fluffier eggs)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for freshness)
  • Optional: crumbled feta cheese, hot sauce, avocado slices for topping

Equipment:

• Small skillet (non-stick preferred)
• Fork or whisk
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Instructions:

1. Get Started: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.

2. Aromatic Foundation: Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

3. Lentil Love: Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion and spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the lentils to heat through and absorb the flavors.

4. Egg-cellent Scramble: While the lentils are warming, whisk the eggs with milk or cream (if using) in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

5. The Scramble Begins: Pour the egg mixture over the lentils in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low-medium.

6. Gentle Cooking: Gently push the cooked egg from the edges of the skillet towards the center, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue to do this until the eggs are mostly set but still slightly moist. Don't overcook them! You want them creamy and tender.

7. Finishing Touches: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley.

8. Plate and Enjoy: Spoon the lentil and egg scramble onto a plate. Top with crumbled feta cheese, a dash of hot sauce, or slices of avocado (if desired).

9. Eat immediately and savor every bite!

Chef's Notes:

• Lentil Options: Canned lentils are a lifesaver for quick breakfasts. Just make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt. Freshly cooked lentils work just as well – cook them ahead of time for even faster prep.
• Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Veggie Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables to the scramble. Diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet along with the onions.
• Make it Ahead: You can cook the lentils with the onion and spices the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, simply reheat and add the eggs.
• Protein Powerhouse: This scramble is a fantastic source of protein, keeping you satisfied and energized for hours.

This Lentil and Egg Scramble is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. So go ahead, experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your own signature morning masterpiece! Now get cookin'!